Our Founder

At the heart of the Musolino Family Myeloma Foundation (MFMF) is the inspiring story of Ross Musolino, a person who turned a personal battle with multiple myeloma into a mission of hope for others. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017, Ross continues to face this challenge with remarkable courage but also envisioned a brighter future for those affected by the disease.

Following diagnosis, Ross underwent standard initial treatment followed by an autologous transplant in early 2018, and whilst it was not as successful as hoped, it did reduce the disease. Since then, Ross has undergone continuous treatment with chemotherapy administered on a regular basis at the RAH. Whilst he has never achieved remission, the treatment regime managed to keep the myeloma under control for a significant period, allowing him an almost normal lifestyle while managing side effects. However, he is now undertaking a clinical trial at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne, which aims to bring the myeloma back under control. During this time, Ross and Anne have developed an interest in myeloma and have attended the myeloma research facilities at SAHMRI on various occasions, where they have been impressed with the work being undertaken in the myeloma space.

Driven by a desire to make a difference, Ross and his wife Anne laid the foundation for the Musolino Family Myeloma Foundation, and setting the vision for a charity that would support patients, drive research, and raise awareness about multiple myeloma.

As an ex officio member, Ross continues to be a guiding force in the charity, ensuring that our work stays true to his original vision of compassion, support, and innovation. The legacy they’ve created is one of hope and transformation, inspiring us every day to push forward in the fight against multiple myeloma.

Ross and Anne are supported by their daughters Jane Kaesler and Katie Maiolo who, together with the other board members, are committed to continuing Ross’ vision and the MFMF into the future.

Meet the Board

The Musolino Family Myeloma Foundation has a leadership team driven by passion, purpose, and a shared vision for creating lasting impact. Each of our Directors brings a unique blend of expertise, dedication, and heart to their role, guiding our mission to make a difference in the lives of people living with multiple myeloma.

Board Member

Clive D'Cruz

Clive is a senior executive in the resources, energy, and infrastructure sectors with over 25 years of experience. As CEO of Epic Energy, he leverages his engineering background and MBA to drive strategic growth, risk management, and stakeholder engagement in a dynamic market.

A graduate of the AICD Company Directors Course, Clive holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (1st Class Honours) and an MBA. He has also attended international industry events to broaden his global perspective.

Outside of work, Clive enjoys family time, fitness, and sports, particularly cricket and soccer.

Board Member

Duncan McKenzie

Duncan is an immunologist specialising in the immune system’s response to cancer. He earned his PhD from the University of Adelaide in 2016, studying T cell migration in inflammation and cancer.

His postdoctoral research at The Francis Crick Institute focused on how sentinel T cells detect early skin cancer. During the pandemic, he contributed to COVID-19 immune response studies and led data analysis on cancer patients’ vaccine responses at King’s College London.

After working in cell therapy development at Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Duncan joined IMU Biosciences as Discovery Lead, driving innovation in immune phenotyping for precision medicine.

Board Member

Katie Maiolo

Katie is a Nurse Manager with 20 years of experience improving health and social outcomes through strategic planning, advocacy, and public policy. She has worked across government, non-government, research, and private sectors, leading service improvements with a people-first approach.

Her work includes delivering outreach programs in rural Nepal and Africa and leading training initiatives across the Fiji Islands. Currently, she supports the homeless through the Magdalene Centre Emergency Assistance Program, focusing on access to essential resources and healthcare.

A breast cancer survivor, Katie completed treatment in 2024 and is passionate about enhancing services for those in need.

Board Member

Jane Kaesler

Jane is a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of experience in public practice, advising clients across diverse industries, including medical, wineries, and building services. She values strong client relationships, providing tailored financial and taxation advice with a strategic, hands-on approach.

As a Senior Associate at UHY Sothertons Adelaide, Jane ensures compliance with evolving tax regulations and helps businesses implement robust financial controls.

Outside of work, she enjoys time with her husband and two children, as well as water skiing, snow skiing, and playing hockey.

Board Member

Emily Gibson

Dr. Emily Gibson is a UK-trained doctor who has practiced as a GP in South Australia since 2011. Passionate about health equity and primary care, she works as a GP Integration Officer at Adelaide Primary Health Network and Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, supporting fellow GPs and conducting research.

As a member of the MFMF board, Emily brings a healthcare perspective, drawing from her experience alongside the Musolino family.

Outside of work, she loves traveling and considers motherhood her most important role.